WELSH political leaders have paid tribute to Nelson Mandela on the night the former South African president and leader of he anti-apartheid struggle died.

The First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones said: "Nelson Mandela can be truly described as one of the greatest figures of modern times. Not many people can claim to have changed the history of their nation for the better, by bringing together what was then a bitterly divided society.

"His message of forgiveness, of reconciliation for the sake of a better future is one all of us should follow."

Leanne Wood, Plaid Cymru leader, said: "The world today mourns a great man who has inspired generations and whose achievements will last forever."

She added the "people of Wales can be proud of having stood in solidarity with Nelson Mandela in his struggle against apartheid, something that he recognised upon his visit to Wales in 1998".

Leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Andrew RT Davies AM, said: "Nelson Mandela was - and will always be - a global inspiration.

"His was a life that has defined what it means to be truly great."

The assembly's presiding officer, Rosemary Butler, said flags would fly at half mast on Friday and on the day of Mr Mandela's funeral.

She added: "These days we often apply the description great to people but Nelson Mandela truly was a great human being."